Systems and methods for managing electronic tokens for device interactions

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods are provided for managing electronic tokens for device interactions. In some embodiments, a unified graphical user interface is provided for an account, for controlling the activation status and settings associated with authorized electronic devices used for conducting transactions on the account. The electronic devices may be programmed with an electronic token that allows a server to look up sensitive account information, although the electronic token does not divulge the account information itself. Therefore, if an electronic token is compromised or stolen, the account does not need to be closed, and sensitive information remains safe. Moreover, the unified graphical user interface provides detailed and highly customizable controls for settings and restrictions associated with each of the electronic tokens, without modifying or accessing sensitive account or personal information.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No.62/181,962, filed Jun. 19, 2015 and U.S. Provisional Application No.62/324,505, filed Apr. 19, 2016 which are hereby incorporated byreference in the present application.

BACKGROUND

The Internet of things has rapidly expanded into nearly all facets ofdaily life. Recently, electronic devices have begun interacting toexchange information in ad-hoc transaction communications, replacingolder information transfer technologies. For example, many organizationsnow use near field communication and wireless transceivers to receiveaccount information from smart phones, to conduct payment transactions,grant access to secure areas, or identify an individual associated withthe smartphone. Generally, the smartphone transmits the accountinformation or a randomly-generated number to complete a transaction.

Current systems include security measures to protect from fraud ortheft, if the smartphone is stolen or lost. But when an electronicdevice or traditional card is lost or compromised, the account issuermust close the account, open a new account, and issue a new accountnumber to prevent fraud or identity theft. In the meantime, fraudulentactivity can occur when an unauthorized individual has the actualaccount information. Once the issuer closes the account, a new accountis opened with new sensitive account information.

In view of the shortcomings of current systems, an improved system andmethod for controlling electronic device interactions is desired.

SUMMARY

Disclosed embodiments provide systems and methods for managingelectronic tokens for device interactions.

Consistent with a disclosed embodiment, a system for managing electronictokens associated with an account is provided. The system may comprise amemory storing instructions and account information associated with anaccount, and a processor. The processor may be configured to executedthe stored instructions to generate one or more electronic tokensassociated with the account, wherein the electronic tokens include dataother than the account information, store, in the memory, a relationshipbetween the account information and the one or more electronic tokens,transmit the one or more electronic tokens to devices associated with auser identified in the account information, and generate data for one ormore user interfaces having selectable commands for individuallydisabling the one or more electronic tokens or configuring settingsassociated with the one or more electronic tokens.

Consistent with another disclosed embodiment, a method for managingelectronic tokens associated with an account is provided. The method maycomprise generating, by one or more processors, one or more electronictokens associated with the account, wherein the electronic tokensinclude data other than the account information, storing, in a memory, arelationship between the account information and the one or moreelectronic tokens, transmitting the one or more electronic tokens todevices associated with a user identified in the account information,and generating data for one or more user interfaces having selectablecommands for individually disabling the one or more electronic tokens orconfiguring settings associated with the one or more electronic tokens.

Consistent with other disclosed embodiments, non-transitorycomputer-readable storage media may store program instructions, whichare executed by at least one processor device and perform any of themethods described herein.

The foregoing general description and the following detailed descriptionare exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of theclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate several embodiments and, togetherwith the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles. In thedrawings:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary system that may be used to manageelectronic tokens for account information sources, consistent withdisclosed embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of an electronic device, consistent with disclosedembodiments.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of an exemplary token server, consistent withdisclosed embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary electronic device token setupprocess, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an exemplary computer terminal applicationtoken setup process, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an exemplary token management process,consistent with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a graphical user interface with an exampleof a token control panel, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Systems and methods are provided for creating and managing electronictokens for account transaction devices. In some embodiments, tokens arecreated and provisioned to a particular electronic device, so that thetoken will only work if transmitted from the provisioned electronicdevice. In some embodiments, tokens are provisioned to a particular webbrowser application on a particular computer terminal, so that the tokenwill only work when communicated through the provisioned browser of theprovisioned terminal. In all embodiments, the tokens are different thanthe account information itself, so that if a token is compromised,sensitive account information is not compromised with the stolen token.For example, when the account information is a 16 digit number, a tokenmay include a different number (e.g., different characters and/orlength) that is associated with the account information. Thus, tokenscan be cancelled, created, and managed without affecting the originalaccount information.

In some embodiments, a unified graphical user interface control panel isprovided for managing issued tokens for all account transaction devicesfor one or more accounts. The control panel may include one or moreselectable elements, such as switches, for dynamically enabling anddisabling tokens for an account that are provisioned to one or moreelectronic devices and/or one or more computer terminal applicationssuch as web browsers. The control panel may also include selectableswitches for activating certain features of the account or to setindividual preferences, settings, and security levels for differentdevices or features of the account. An individual such as the accountholder or an account administrator may enable or disable tokens todynamically control devices that are linked to the account information,without affecting the original account information. Thus, the disclosedembodiments provide, among other things, enhanced security forelectronic account information management and communication, whileeliminating the need to modify original account information—a problemwith traditional account information management systems.

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments, examplesof which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and disclosedherein. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers will be usedthroughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

FIG. 1 shows a diagram of an exemplary system 100 that may be configuredto perform one or more processes for managing electronic tokens foraccount transaction devices. The components and arrangements shown inFIG. 1 are not intended to limit the disclosed embodiments, as thecomponents used to implement the disclosed processes and features mayvary.

In accordance with disclosed embodiments, system 100 may electronicdevice 115, user terminal 120, token server 130, database 135, network140, local network 145, and third party server 150. Other componentsknown to one of ordinary skill in the art may be included in system 100to gather, process, transmit, receive, and provide information used inconjunction with the disclosed embodiments.

Electronic device 115 and/or terminal device 120 may includecomputerized systems or devices that are used for transactionsassociated with an account. The account transaction devices may beassociated with a user 105. In some embodiments, user 105 is associatedwith one or more accounts, such as an identification account, a securityaccess account, a membership account, a credit card account, a debitcard account, a checking or savings account, a gift card account, or anyother type of account that can be identified using account number or ID.

Electronic device 115 may be a personal computing device such as, forexample, a mobile device with computing ability, a tablet, smartphone,wearable device such as Google Glass™ or smart watches, a notebookcomputer, or any combination of these computers and/or affiliatedcomponents. In one embodiment, electronic device 115 may be a mobilecomputer device that is operated by user 105 who is associated with atleast one account. In some embodiments, electronic device 115 is anelectronic device capable of storing and transmitting accountinformation, such as an electronic token associated with the account. Asshown in FIG. 1, electronic device 115 may include, in some embodiments,a smart phone, a wearable device such as an electronic fitness bracelet,or an electronic key such as a wireless car key.

User terminal 120 may comprise one or more computerized devicesconfigured to provide account information via network 140 using anapplication such as a web browser. User terminal 120 may be acomputer-based system including computer system components, desktopcomputers, workstations, tablets, hand held computing devices, memorydevices, and/or internal network(s) connecting the components.

Token server 130 may include one or more computer-based systemsincluding computer system components, desktop computers, workstations,tablets, hand held computing devices, memory devices, and/or internalnetwork(s) connecting the components. Token server 130 may be ownedand/or operated by an entity responsible for issuing and maintaining oneor more accounts associated with user 105. In some embodiments, tokenserver 130 is associated with one or more of a membership facility (suchas, e.g., a fitness center), a government organization (such as, e.g., astate government or department of motor vehicles), a bank, a credit cardcompany, a hotel, or any other entity that may issue and maintain one ormore accounts. In some embodiments, token server 130 may generate and/ormanage one or more electronic tokens associated with the accounts. Theelectronic tokens may include a reference or pointer to accountinformation associated with the account. For example, the electronictoken may provide a reference number pointing to a specific accountnumber, without including the actual account number. Thus, devices thatstore and transmit the electronic tokens may provide for securetransactions without providing sensitive account information.

Database 135 may include one or more memory devices that store data andinstructions used to perform one or more features of the disclosedembodiments. Database 135 may also include any combination of one ormore databases controlled by memory controller devices (e.g., server(s),etc.) or software, such as document management systems, Microsoft SQLdatabases, SharePoint databases, Oracle™ databases, Sybase™ databases,or other relational databases. In some embodiments, database 135 maycomprise an associative array architecture, such as a key-value storage,for storing and rapidly retrieving large amounts of information about anindividual. In some embodiments, database 135 may store informationassociated with one or more accounts, and electronic token informationassociated with electronic device 115 and/or user terminal 120.

Network 140 may comprise any type of computer networking arrangementused to exchange data. For example, network 140 may be the Internet, aprivate data network, virtual private network using a public network,and/or other suitable connection(s) that enables system 100 to send andreceive information between the components of system 100. Network 140may also include a public switched telephone network (“PSTN”) and/or awireless network such as a cellular network, WiFi network, or otherknown wireless network capable of bidirectional data transmission.

Local network 145 may comprise any type of computer networkingarrangement used to exchange data in a localized area, such as WiFi,Bluetooth™′ Ethernet, and other suitable network connections that enablecomponents of system 100 to interact with one another and to connect tonetwork 140 for interacting with components in system environment 200.In some embodiments, local network 145 comprises a portion of network140. In other embodiments, components of system 100 may communicate vianetwork 140, without a separate local network 145.

Third party server 150 may be owned, operated, and/or associated with athird-party entity involved in one or more transactions initiated byuser 105 using an account transaction device such as electronic device115 or user terminal 120. For example, when token server 130 isassociated with a bank, third party server 150 may be associated with amerchant, vendor, or another bank associated with another party to afinancial transaction other than user 105.

FIG. 2 shows a diagram of an exemplary electronic device 115, consistentwith disclosed embodiments. Electronic device 115 can include any typeof mobile device capable of receiving, storing, and/or providing accounttoken(s) in the disclosed methods. In some embodiments, electronicdevice 115 is a mobile personal computing device such as a smartphone,mobile phone, tablet computer, smartwatch, smart glasses, and any otherknown or future format of portable electronic computing device. In someembodiments, electronic device 115 is a device that has a primarypurpose other than performing general computing tasks, yet possessessufficient computing power and components to store and provide accounttoken(s). Examples of such embodiments may include an electronic carkey, a wearable fitness device having a transceiver, a security doorfob, an electronic account card, or any other portable electronic devicehaving at least a memory and a wireless transceiver. As shown in FIG. 2,electronic device 115 may include a display 210, input/output (“I/O”)devices 220, one or more processors 230, memory 240 having storedthereon one or more programs 250, such as account app 252, and alsostoring data 260, and may further include a transceiver 270.

Display 210 may include one or more known devices such as, for example,one or more LED indicator lights, a segmented LED display, an LCDscreen, an Organic LED (OLED) screen, or any other type of displaycapable of providing information.

I/O devices 220 may include one or more devices that allow electronicdevice 115 to receive input from user 105 and provide feedback to user105. I/O devices 220 may include, for example, one or more buttons,switches, speakers, microphones, or touchscreen panels. In someembodiments, I/O devices 220 may be manipulated by user 105 to inputinformation into mobile device 115. For example, when electronic device115 is a smartphone, I/O devices 220 may include physical buttons on thesmartphone, a microphone, a speaker, touchscreen, camera, or sensor. Asanother example when electronic device 115 is a car key, I/O devices 220may include buttons on the car key such as the lock, unlock, and panicbuttons. As another example, when electronic device 115 is a wearablefitness device such as a Fitbit™ wristband, I/O devices 220 may includephysical buttons and an accelerometer shock sensor.

Processor 230 may be one or more known processing devices, such as amicroprocessor from the Pentium™ family manufactured by Intel™ or theTurion™ family manufactured by AMD™. Processor 230 may constitute asingle core or multiple core processors that executes parallel processessimultaneously. For example, processor 230 may be a single coreprocessor configured with virtual processing technologies. In certainembodiments, processor 230 may use logical processors to simultaneouslyexecute and control multiple processes. Processor 230 may implementvirtual machine technologies, or other known technologies to provide theability to execute, control, run, manipulate, store, etc. multiplesoftware processes, applications, programs, etc. In another embodiment,processor 230 may include a multiple-core processor arrangement (e.g.,dual, quad core, etc.) configured to provide parallel processingfunctionalities to allow mobile device 115 to execute multiple processessimultaneously. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand thatother types of processor arrangements could be implemented that providefor the capabilities disclosed herein.

Memory 240 may be a volatile or non-volatile, magnetic, semiconductor,tape, optical, removable, non-removable, or other type of storage deviceor tangible (i.e., non-transitory) computer-readable medium that storesone or more program(s) 250 such as account app 252, and data 260. Data260 may include, for example, user 105's personal information, one ormore electronic tokens associated with one or more accounts, and displaysettings and preferences. In some embodiments, electronic tokens mayinclude informational items such as, for example, an alphanumericreference number that points to an account, an account label, accountissuance date, account expiration date, account issuer identification,and any other necessary information associated with user 105 and/or anaccount associated with user 105, without including highly sensitiveinformation such as an actual account number. Thus, the electronic tokenmay include information that points to an account, without providingsensitive account information that, if compromised, would sacrifice theintegrity or security of the account.

Program(s) 250 may include operating systems (not shown) that performknown operating system functions when executed by one or moreprocessors. By way of example, the operating systems may includeMicrosoft Windows™, Unix™, Linux™′ Apple™ operating systems, PersonalDigital Assistant (PDA) type operating systems, such as Microsoft CE™,or other types of operating systems. Accordingly, disclosed embodimentsmay operate and function with computer systems running any type ofoperating system. Mobile device 115 may also include communicationsoftware that, when executed by a processor, provides communicationswith network 140, such as Web browser software, tablet, or smart handheld device networking software, etc. Electronic device 115 may be adevice that executes mobile applications for performing operationsconsistent with disclosed embodiments, such as a tablet or mobiledevice. In some embodiments, programs 250 may include basic operatinglogic for performing functions associated with electronic device 115such as logic for locking and unlocking doors and starting a car (for acar key), tracking fitness data (for a wearable fitness device),detecting a nearby wireless antenna and transmitting stored information(for a security key fob).

Program(s) 250 may include account app(s) 252, such as an app forreceiving, storing, transmitting, and managing an electronic token. Insome embodiments, account app 252 may include instructions that causeprocessor 230 to connect to store a received electronic token, recall astored token from memory, and provide the stored electronic token. Insome embodiments, account app 252 may allow user 105 to configure one ormore settings associated with the token and/or other tokens. Forexample, account app 252 may provide access to a control panel userinterface, allowing user 105 to activate, deactivate, and configuresettings for tokens associated with other electronic devices 115 anduser terminals 120.

In some embodiments, electronic device 115 may include one or moresensors (not shown in figure). Sensors may include one or more devicescapable of sensing the environment around mobile device 115 and/ormovement of mobile device 115. In some embodiments, sensors 280 mayinclude, for example, an accelerometer, a shock sensor, a gyroscope, aposition sensor, a microphone, an ambient light sensor, a temperaturesensor, and/or a conductivity sensor.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of an exemplary token server 130 consistent withdisclosed embodiments. As shown, token server 130 may include one ormore processor 320, input/output (“I/O”) devices 330, memory 340 storingdata 360 and programs 350 (including, for example, server app(s) 352 andoperating system 354), and a database 370. Token server 130 may be asingle server or may be configured as a distributed computer systemincluding multiple servers or computers that interoperate to perform oneor more of the processes and functionalities associated with thedisclosed embodiments.

Processor 320 may be one or more known processing devices, such as asingle- or multiple-core processor that executes parallel processessimultaneously. For example, processor 320 may be a single coreprocessor configured with virtual processing technologies. In certainembodiments, processor 320 may use logical processors to simultaneouslyexecute and control multiple processes. Processor 320 may implementvirtual machine technologies, or other known technologies to provide theability to execute, control, run, manipulate, store, etc. multiplesoftware processes, applications, programs, etc. In another embodiment,processor 320 may include a multiple-core processor arrangement (e.g.,dual core, quad core, etc.) configured to provide parallel processingfunctionalities to allow token server 130 to execute multiple processessimultaneously. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand thatother types of processor arrangements could be implemented that providefor the capabilities disclosed herein.

Token server 130 may also include one or more I/O devices 330 that maycomprise one or more interfaces for receiving signals or input fromdevices and providing signals or output to one or more devices thatallow data to be received and/or transmitted by token server 130. Forexample, token server 130 may include interface components that provideinterfaces to one or more input devices, such as one or more keyboards,mouse devices, and the like, that enable token server 130 to receiveinput from an employee of the financial service provider (not shown) orother operator of server 130.

Token server 130 may include one or more storage devices configured tostore information used by processor 320 (or other components) to performcertain functions related to the disclosed embodiments. In one example,token server 130 may include memory 340 that includes instructions toenable processor 320 to execute one or more applications, such as serverapplications, an electronic transaction application, an account statusapplication, network communication processes, and any other type ofapplication or software known to be available on computer systems.Alternatively or additionally, the instructions, application programs,etc. may be stored in an internal database 470 or external storage (notshown) in direct communication with token server 130, such as one ormore database or memory accessible over network 140. Database 370 orother external storage may be a volatile or non-volatile, magnetic,semiconductor, tape, optical, removable, non-removable, or other type ofstorage device or tangible (i.e., non-transitory) computer-readablemedium.

In one embodiment, token server 130 may include memory 340 that includesinstructions that, when executed by processor 320, perform one or moreprocesses consistent with the functionalities disclosed herein. Methods,systems, and articles of manufacture consistent with disclosedembodiments are not limited to separate programs or computers configuredto perform dedicated tasks. For example, token server 130 may includememory 340 that may include one or more programs 350 to perform one ormore functions of the disclosed embodiments. Moreover, processor 320 mayexecute one or more programs located remotely from account informationdisplay system 100. For example, token server 130 may access one or moreremote programs, that, when executed, perform functions related todisclosed embodiments.

Programs 350 stored in memory 340 and executed by processor(s) 320 mayinclude one or more server app(s) 352 and operating system 354. Serverapp(s) 352 may incorporate one or more account information apps thatcause processor(s) 320 to execute one or more processes related tomanaging or transmitting account information including, but not limitedto, managing one or more electronic account database entries, generateone or more electronic tokens associated with an account, transmit thegenerated electronic token to an electronic device 115 or terminaldevice 120, generate one or more interfaces for controlling activationstatuses of the generated electronic tokens, and for managing one ormore settings for each of the electronic tokens.

Memory 340 and database 370 may include one or more memory devices thatstore data and instructions used to perform one or more features of thedisclosed embodiments. Memory 340 and database 370 may also include anycombination of one or more databases controlled by memory controllerdevices (e.g., server(s), etc.) or software, such as document managementsystems, Microsoft SQL databases, Share Point databases, Oracle™databases, Sybase™ databases, or other relational databases.

Token server 130 may also be communicatively connected to one or moreremote memory devices (e.g., remote databases (not shown)) throughnetwork 140 or a different network. The remote memory devices may beconfigured to store information and may be accessed and/or managed bytoken server 130. By way of example, the remote memory devices may bedocument management systems, Microsoft SQL database, Share Pointdatabases, Oracle™ databases, Sybase™ databases, or other relationaldatabases. Systems and methods consistent with disclosed embodiments,however, are not limited to separate databases or even to the use of adatabase.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary electronic device token setupprocess 400. In some embodiments, process 400 may provide electronicdevice 115 with an electronic token associated with one or more accountfor user 105. Process 400 is discussed below as being performed by tokenserver 130. In some embodiments, some or all of the steps of process 400may be performed by one or more processors other than processor 320 oftoken server 130, such as, for example, electronic device 115, userterminal 120, or any other individual or distributed computing systems(not shown in figures).

In step 402, token server 130 may establish communication withelectronic device 115. In some embodiments, token server 130 mayinitiate communication with electronic device 115 over a wirelesscommunication link such as network 140 or local network 145. Electronicdevice 115 may include one or more controls for entering a “pairingmode,” to receive and accept an invitation from token server 130 toestablish a bidirectional communication link.

In step 404, token server 130 may generate one or more electronic tokensfor the electronic device 115 in communication with token server 130. Insome embodiments, the electronic token may comprise an encrypted orunencrypted file including one or more of a software application or datato be utilized by another software application. The electronic token mayinclude data associated with and specific to the account associated withuser 105 and electronic device 115. In some embodiments, the electronictoken is devoid of any identifying or sensitive information associatedwith user 105 or the account, such as user 105's name or identifyinginformation, or the account number or security code(s). Instead, theelectronic token may include data that refers to user 105 or an accountassociated with user 105. The reference data may allow token server 130to determine the sensitive information associated with the account oruser 105, when the electronic token is received at token server 130 fromthe designated device.

In step 406, token server 130 may provision the generated one or moreelectronic tokens to the electronic device 115. In some embodiments,token server 130 may store a relationship between the generatedelectronic tokens and the account information, such as a database entryidentifying the generated electronic token(s) as being pointers tospecific account information. Token server 130 may also receive andstore authentication data from electronic device 115, for laterauthenticating an electronic token received from the electronic device115.

In step 408, token server 130 may transmit the provisioned electronictoken(s) to the electronic device 115 via, for example, network 140and/or local network 145. Once received, electronic device 115 may storethe electronic token, or install the electronic token (not shown infigure).

In step 410, token server 130 may configure settings associated with theelectronic token(s). In some embodiments, token server 130 may generateone or more user interfaces, such as a graphical user interface controlpanel, allowing user 105 to configure one or more settings associatedwith the electronic token provisioned to electronic device 115. In someembodiments, settings may include one or more of time restrictions,limits, thresholds, security levels, authorized users, and any otherpreferences, rules, or restrictions configurable by user 105 dependingon the type of account, the needs of user 105, and the needs andcapabilities of the entity managing the account.

In step 412, token server 130 may determine whether additionalelectronic tokens are required for the additional electronic devices 115and/or additional accounts. In some embodiments, token server 412 mayrequest an indication from user 105 as to whether additional electronicdevices 115 are to be linked to the account. In some embodiments, tokenserver 130 may automatically determine that additional electronic tokensare needed, such as when additional electronic devices 115 are incommunication with token server 130 (from step 402) that do not have anyprovisioned electronic token. If additional electronic tokens are needed(“Yes” in step 412), then process 400 may return to step 404. In someembodiments, process 400 may return to step 402 if additional electronictokens are needed and additional electronic devices 115 are not yet incommunication with token server 130.

If no additional electronic tokens are needed (“No” in step 412), thenprocess 400 may end.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an exemplary computer terminal applicationelectronic token setup process 500. Process 500 may involve setting upan application running on terminal device 120, such as a web browserapplication on a desktop or laptop computer. Process 500 may be used tosetup a web browser on user terminal 120 to transmit one or more dynamicelectronic tokens to complete a transaction over network 140. Forexample, when the account is a payment account, a plugin or appassociated with a web browser application on user terminal 120 maygenerate an electronic token identifying user 105, user terminal 120,and/or the account, and provide the electronic token to third partyserver 150, e.g., a third party server 150 associated with a merchant,for completing a purchase transaction. Third party server 150 may thenprovide the electronic token to token server 130, at which point tokenserver 130 may determine the account associated with the electronictoken, and authorize the payment transaction. As described below,process 500 is performed primarily by terminal device 120. In someembodiments, process 500 may be performed by one or more otherprocessing devices, such as token server 130 and/or electronic device115.

In step 502, terminal device 120 may establish communication with tokenserver 130 and access an application such as server app 352, causingterminal device 120 to display one or more graphical user interfacesincluding a control panel. In some embodiments, process 500 may proceedwithout displaying the control panel.

In step 504 terminal device 120 may install an application received fromtoken server 130, such as an app or plugin for a web browser running onterminal device 120. The plugin or app may generate one or moreelectronic tokens dynamically for completing electronic transactionsthat require authentication with token server 130 and/or thetransmission of account information from token server 130 to third partyserver 150.

In step 506, the installed app/plugin may be linked to an accountmanaged by token server 130. In some embodiments, terminal device 120may transmit information identifying the particular installation of theplugin/app to token server 130. Token server 130 may store theidentifying information in a database entry identifying a relationshipbetween the account and account information to the plugin/app installedon terminal device 120. Thereafter, token server 130 may determine theparticular account and account information required to complete atransaction, upon receiving a token generated by the plugin/app duringan authenticated transaction.

In step 508, terminal device 120 may configure the plugin/app, such asby prompting user 105 to enter one or more settings for the plugin/app,or receiving one or more settings from token server 130. In someembodiments, a plugin/app may be designated for individual websites. Forexample, a plugin/app may generate tokens for completing transactions onpredetermined websites, such as a certain shopping website or certaintravel booking website. The plugin/app may be configured to generate andprovide tokens that token server 130 only accepts for the designatedwebsite. If a data breach occurs and information from the website iscompromised, token server 130 would decline any transaction initiatedusing the token from another website, thereby preventing fraudulentactivity.

In step 510, terminal device 120 may determine whether there areadditional computer applications that require plugins or linking totoken server 130. For example, if terminal device 120 has multiple webbrowsers installed (such as Microsoft® Internet Explorer®, Google®Chrome®, and Mozilla® Firefox®), terminal device 120 may prompt user 105for input regarding whether additional web browsers should be linked totoken server 130. If additional plugins are required for additionalcomputer applications (“Yes” in step 510), then process 500 may returnto step 504. If no additional computer applications require plugins(“No” in step 510), then process 500 may end.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an exemplary electronic token managementprocess 600. Process 600 may provide user 105 or another authorizedindividual to manage electronic tokens associated with an account atboth an individual level and at a bulk level. As previously discussed,the electronic tokens provide a pointer to account information that isrecognizable only by token server 130, and the electronic tokens can betransmitted or exchanged during a transaction, without divulging theactual sensitive account information. Therefore, individual tokens canbe enabled, disabled, or subject to certain restrictions without havingany effect on the actual account information stored at token server 130.Sensitive account information is not exchanged during a transactioninitiated by user 105, thereby increasing security, virtuallyeliminating many risks associated with electronic transactions involvingaccount information, and allowing individualized control of electronictoken sources without requiring any changes to the sensitive accountinformation. For example, if an electronic device 115 having anelectronic token associated therewith is lost or stolen, the token forthe electronic device 115 can be individually disabled in the controlpanel application, without requiring cancellation or replacement of thesensitive account information. Furthermore, if the electronic token isstolen and transmitted from another, unauthorized device, token server130 may decline the transaction by determining that the electronic tokenwas transmitted from an unknown or unauthorized device.

For discussion, process 600 is described herein as being performedprimarily by token server 130. In some embodiments, electronic device115 or terminal device 120 may include an interface for accessing andviewing a graphical user interface generated by token server 130. Insome embodiments, terminal device 120 or electronic device 115 mayinclude an application configured to receive data from memory or fromstorage associated with token sever 130, and generate a control paneluser interface, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

For simplicity, the term “token” as used herein may refer to both theelectronic tokens provisioned to individual electronic devices and toplugins/apps installed in terminal devices.

In step 602, token server 130 may retrieve identifications and settingsfor all electronic tokens, plugins, and apps associated with aparticular account, such as those linked and configured during processes400 and 500. In some embodiments, token server 130 may retrieve datafrom a repository such as database 370 or memory 340, or a remote datastorage configured to store and organize large quantities of data (notshown in figures).

In step 604, token server 130 may generate data for displaying a controlpanel graphical user interface. In some embodiments, token server 130may generate a graphical depiction of each token or plugin associatedwith the account, such as an icon or a line of text. Token server 130may also generate one or more graphical user interface controls forcontrolling an activation status of each token. In some embodiments,token server 130 may also generate one or more depictions or controlsassociated with settings for each token. For example, token server 130may generate one or more icons, symbols, or labels indicating whether aparticular token or plugin is limited for use with certain thirdparties, such as a particular store, merchant, facility, or other thirdparty that may conduct transactions involving account data. In someembodiments, token server 130 may generate one or more graphicalcontrols for activating or deactivating some or all of the tokens orplugins simultaneously. For example, the control panel GUI may include amaster switch that activates or deactivates all tokens and pluginssimultaneously, regardless of their current activation status. Such amaster switch may be selected when user 105 desires to freeze the entireaccount and prevent any activity on the account. In other embodiments,the control panel GUI may include one or more switches for activating ordeactivating groups of two or more tokens or plugins simultaneously.Tokens or plugins associated with each group switch may be determinedautomatically by token server 130 and/or manually by user 105. Forexample, control panel GUI may include a first group switch thatactivates/deactivates “all electronic devices,” and a second groupswitch that activates/deactivates “all plugins/apps.” Group and masterswitches may be customized or reconfigured according to the needs ofuser 105 and predefined rules programmed in token server 130.”

In step 606, token server 130 may receive a selection of a control foractivating or deactivating a particular token. For example, user 105 mayattempt to activate or deactivate one or more particular tokens, a groupof tokens (including, e.g., via a group switch), or all tokens(including, e.g., via the master switch). Token server 130 may determinethe tokens associated with the selected control (not shown in figure).

In step 608, token server 130 may update one or more database entriesassociated with the activation status of the affected tokens, toindicate whether the affected tokens are activated or deactivated basedon the selected control. For example, if token server 130 determinesthat a wearable fitness device token should be deactivated based on acorresponding control input received in step 606, then token server 130may update and store a status of the wearable fitness device token as“inactive.” Thereafter, token server 130 would decline any transactioninitiated using the wearable fitness device token. In some embodiments,token server 130 may communicate the updated status to the electronicdevice 115 or terminal device 120. In such embodiments, electronicdevice 115 or terminal device 120 may proactively refuse to initiateadditional transactions until the token status is changed back to“active.” In some embodiments, deactivation may cause deletion of thetoken from the respective electronic device 115 or terminal device 120.Thus, user 105 or an authorized individual may have the ability tocontrol individual devices linked to a single account using a singleunified control panel interface, without having any effect on thesensitive account information stored with the institution managing theaccount.

In step 610, token server 130 may determine whether the control panelsession is still active, such as by determining whether the controlpanel GUI is still open in an application or browser window. If so(“Yes” in step 610), then process 600 may return to 604, in which anupdated control panel GUI is generated and displayed. If token server130 determines that the session is no longer active (“No” in step 610),then in some embodiments process 600 may end.

In step 612, token server 130 may receive a selection of one or moretoken setting controls. For example, token server 130 may determine thatuser 105 selected an icon or switch associated with a particular tokenor group of tokens, that the icon or switch has changed a restriction orrule associated with the affected token or group of tokens. In someembodiments, token server 130 may generate and display one or moreadditional user interfaces corresponding to the selected setting orrule, to receive additional details regarding the requested settingupdate. For example, if user 105 selects a switch for limiting aspending limit on a car key token, token server 130 may generate anddisplay an additional user interface to request a new spending limit forthe car key token. Thereafter, token server 130 may only completetransactions initiated using the car key at or below the spending limitfor the car key token. As another example, if token server 130determines that user 105 wants to restrict a car key token for usageduring certain times of day, then token server 130 may generate anddisplay an interface for receiving selection of valid time periods forusing the affected token or group of tokens.

In step 614, token server 103 may update one or more database entriesassociated with the settings of the affected tokens, to reflect the newor updated settings associated with the selected tokens. Thereafter,token server 130 may query the stored settings when presented with atransaction initiated by the affected token(s), to determine whether thetransaction should proceed depending on the rules and restrictions inthe stored settings. In some embodiments, token server 130 may providethe selected settings to the electronic device 115 or terminal device120 associated with the affected token, to allow the electronic device115 or terminal device 120 to govern the initiation of futuretransactions based on the settings. Thus, using the disclosedembodiments, user 105 may set individual rules and restrictions fordifferent devices or web browsers, without affecting the restrictions orsettings associated with the overall account. For example, when theaccount is a spending account, user 105 may set individual spendinglimits for devices and web browsers that are different from one anotherand different (yet lower) than an overall spending limit set by theissuing entity of the spending account. As another example, a securefacility access account may allow access to a room or building duringbusiness hours, but user 105 may set restrictions on different devicesassociated with the access account, to prevent access at times,including times within business hours, without affecting the overallaccount settings.

After completing step 614, process 600 may proceed to step 610, todetermine whether the control session is still active.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a graphical user interface including anexample of a control panel 700. Control panel 700 may include aplurality of controls, switches, menus, icons, and other graphicalelements that provide user 105 with a comprehensive indication of thestatus and settings associated with all devices and plugins/apps thatare configured to conduct account transactions. Additionally, controlpanel 700 may provide statuses and controls associated with features orsettings associated with the account.

In the example shown in FIG. 7, control panel 700 provides controls foran account ending in number 3456. Control panel 700 may include a masterswitch for activating or deactivating the entire account. In the exampleshown, control panel 700 is organized into two sections for “Tokens &Plugins” and “Activities.” In some embodiments, the layout andconfiguration of control panel 700 may be configurable by user 105 oranother authorized individual, depending on the needs of user 105 andthe entity managing user 105's account. The “Tokens & Plugins” portionof control panel 700 may include controls and settings for accounttransaction devices, including electronic devices 115 and pluginsinstalled on user terminals 120. As shown, a group switch is providedfor bulk activation/deactivation of “Smartphone,” “Wearable FitnessBand,” “Car Key 1,” and “Car Key 2.” Another group switch is providedfor “Laptop Browser,” and “Desktop Browser.” A third group switch isprovided for “Website A,” and “Website B,” discuss later. Selection of agroup switch may cause token server 130 to update an activation statusof all electronic devices 115 in the group, regardless of the currentstatus. In some embodiments, deactivated electronic devices or pluginsmay appear in a different color or in a lighter color, to distinguishfrom activated devices or plugins (not illustrated in figure).

Each electronic device 115 and user terminal 120 plugin may have anindividual activation switch. In the example shown, Smartphone, WearableFitness Band, and Car Key 2 are activated, and Car Key 1 is deactivated.Selection of individual activation switches may cause token server 130to update an individual activation status of the associated device orplugin.

Plugins for “Laptop Browser” and “Desktop Browser” may includeindividual activation switches, as well as a group switch, depending onthe preferences of user 105 or the predetermined configuration set bytoken server 130.

In some embodiments, token server 130 may provide individual switchesand/or settings for websites that associated with the account. Forexample, when a plugin/app is associated with one or more particularwebsites, control panel 700 may provide a switch for disablingindividual websites. In the example shown, the Laptop Browser plugin isassociated with websites A and B (shown by the circled letters under theSettings column). If Website A is deactivated via the individual switchfor Website A, then the Laptop Browser plugin may continue generatingelectronic tokens for conducting transactions over Website B, but notWebsite A. Additionally, any other electronic tokens or pluginsassociated with Website A may cease to complete transactions.

In some embodiments, control panel 700 may include one or more switchesor settings for activities and features associated with an account. Inthe example shown, the “Activities” box provides switches and settingsfor “International Transactions” and “Balance Transfers.” Using theunified control panel 700, user 105 may activate and deactivatedifferent aspects of the account, other than the devices and methods oftransmitting account information. In the example shown, control panel700 may allow user 105 to prevent any international transactions by asingle switch, or toggle the activation of balance transfers. The typesof features displayed in control panel 700 may vary depending on thetype of account, features associated with the account, the needs of user105, and the capabilities of token server 130 and the entity managingthe account.

As shown in FIG. 7, next to the activation switches are settings icons,indicative of the types of settings that have been configured withrespect to each electronic device 115, user terminal 120 plugin,website, or account feature. Settings may include, for example, timerestrictions (illustrated by a clock icon), spending limit and othermonetary restrictions (illustrated by a “$” icon), or restrictions tospecific third parties, such as specific websites, merchants,facilities, locations, or other configurable location and entity-basedrestrictions (illustrated by the “A” and “B” icons representing WebsiteA and Website B). In some embodiments, selection of any of the settingsicons may provide additional information and controls for modifying thespecific settings (not shown in figure). In some embodiments, each lineitem in control panel 700 may include an “Edit” button, illustrated atthe right of control panel 700, for allowing user 105 or anotherauthorized individual to edit any settings associated with therespective electronic device 115, user terminal 120 plugin,website/location/third party, or account activity. In some embodiments,user 105 may configure specific security settings for each item incontrol panel 700. For example, user 105 may configure token server 130to require a PIN number for any transactions initiated using Car Key 1,or a specific password for Laptop Browser 1. Thus, control panel 700 mayprovide user 105 with comprehensive options for personalizing andcustomizing many different aspects of their experience using theaccount, without affecting or accessing any sensitive information.Moreover, control panel 700 provides settings and information allaspects of the account, including the account transaction devices, in aunified graphical user interface.

The foregoing description has been presented for purposes ofillustration. It is not exhaustive and is not limited to the preciseforms or embodiments disclosed. Modifications and adaptations of theembodiments will be apparent from consideration of the specification andpractice of the disclosed embodiments. For example, the describedimplementations include hardware and software, but systems and methodsconsistent with the present disclosure can be implemented as hardwarealone.

Computer programs based on the written description and methods of thisspecification are within the skill of a software developer. The variousprograms or program modules can be created using a variety ofprogramming techniques. For example, program sections or program modulescan be designed in or by means of Java, C, C++, assembly language, orany such programming languages. One or more of such software sections ormodules can be integrated into a computer system, non-transitorycomputer-readable media, or existing communications software.

Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, thescope includes any and all embodiments having equivalent elements,modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across variousembodiments), adaptations or alterations based on the presentdisclosure. The elements in the claims are to be interpreted broadlybased on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examplesdescribed in the present specification or during the prosecution of theapplication, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive.Further, the steps of the disclosed methods can be modified in anymanner, including by reordering steps or inserting or deleting steps. Itis intended, therefore, that the specification and examples beconsidered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit beingindicated by the following claims and their full scope of equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for managing electronic tokensassociated with device interactions, comprising: a memory storinginstructions and account information associated with an account; and aprocessor configured to executed the stored instructions to: generateone or more electronic tokens associated with the account, wherein theelectronic tokens include data other than the account information;store, in the memory, a relationship between the account information andthe one or more electronic tokens; transmit the one or more electronictokens to devices associated with a user identified in the accountinformation; and generate data for one or more user interfaces havingselectable commands for individually disabling the one or moreelectronic tokens or configuring settings associated with the one ormore electronic tokens.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the one ormore user interfaces provide selectable commands for all electronictokens associated with the account simultaneously.
 3. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the one or more user interfaces further include one ormore settings for restrictions on the usage of the one or moreelectronic tokens.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the processortransmits a first of the one or more electronic tokens to a smartphone.5. The system of claim 4, wherein the processor transmits a second ofthe one or more electronic tokens to a wearable fitness device orelectronic key device.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or moreuser interfaces includes a single control for simultaneously activatingor deactivating all of the one or more electronic tokens.
 7. The systemof claim 1, wherein the processor authorizes transactions associatedwith the account by receiving an electronic token and determiningwhether the received electronic token is included in the storedrelationship.
 8. A method for managing electronic tokens associateddevice interactions, comprising: generating, by one or more processors,one or more electronic tokens associated with the account, wherein theelectronic tokens include data other than the account information;storing, in a memory, a relationship between the account information andthe one or more electronic tokens; transmitting the one or moreelectronic tokens to devices associated with a user identified in theaccount information; and generating data for one or more user interfaceshaving selectable commands for individually disabling the one or moreelectronic tokens or configuring settings associated with the one ormore electronic tokens.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the one ormore user interfaces provide selectable commands for all electronictokens associated with the account simultaneously.
 10. The method ofclaim 8, wherein the one or more user interfaces further include one ormore settings for restrictions on the usage of the one or moreelectronic tokens.
 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the processortransmits a first of the one or more electronic tokens to a smartphone.12. The method of claim 11, wherein the processor transmits a second ofthe one or more electronic tokens to a wearable fitness device orelectronic key device.
 13. The method of claim 8, wherein the one ormore user interfaces includes a single control for simultaneouslyactivating or deactivating all of the one or more electronic tokens. 14.The method of claim 8, wherein the processor authorizes transactionsassociated with the account by receiving an electronic token anddetermining whether the received electronic token is included in thestored relationship.
 15. A non-transitory computer-readable mediumstoring instructions which, when executed, cause at least one processorto perform a method for managing electronic tokens associated withdevice interactions, comprising: generating one or more electronictokens associated with the account, wherein the electronic tokensinclude data other than the account information; storing, in a memory, arelationship between the account information and the one or moreelectronic tokens; transmitting the one or more electronic tokens todevices associated with a user identified in the account information;and generating data for one or more user interfaces having selectablecommands for individually disabling the one or more electronic tokens orconfiguring settings associated with the one or more electronic tokens.16. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 15, wherein theone or more user interfaces provide selectable commands for allelectronic tokens associated with the account simultaneously.
 17. Thenon-transitory computer readable medium of claim 15, wherein the one ormore user interfaces further include one or more settings forrestrictions on the usage of the one or more electronic tokens.
 18. Thenon-transitory computer readable medium of claim 15, wherein theprocessor transmits a first of the one or more electronic tokens to asmartphone.
 19. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 18,wherein the processor transmits a second of the one or more electronictokens to a wearable fitness device or electronic key device.
 20. Thenon-transitory computer readable medium of claim 15, wherein the one ormore user interfaces includes a single control for simultaneouslyactivating or deactivating all of the one or more electronic tokens. 21.The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 15, wherein theprocessor authorizes transactions associated with the account byreceiving an electronic token and determining whether the receivedelectronic token is included in the stored relationship.